Major Exchange Looms: Up to 1,200 Ukrainian soldiers could return home

Ukraine: The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been ongoing for three years. Russia continues to attack Ukraine. However, some good news is emerging amidst all this. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that his government is trying to resume prisoner exchanges with Russia. The aim is to bring home approximately 1,200 Ukrainian soldiers. Zelensky stated that numerous meetings and discussions are underway, and that contacts are being maintained through various channels. Rustam Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, said on Saturday that negotiations were conducted under the mediation of Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. Both sides have agreed to implement the rules for prisoner exchanges established in Istanbul in 2022. Umerov said that final technical and procedural decisions will be made soon. He expressed hope that the returned Ukrainian soldiers would be able to celebrate New Year's and Christmas with their families. Russia's Attack on Ukraine Continues However, amid all this, Russia's attack on Ukraine continues. In the latest update, Russian drone strikes damaged several power and energy facilities in Ukraine's Odessa region, including a solar power plant. Ukraine is grappling with frequent Russian airstrikes and power outages as winter approaches. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia fired 176 drones and one missile in one night, while Ukrainian forces shot down or neutralized 139 of these drones. Russian Defense Ministry Claims On the other hand, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that it destroyed 57 Ukrainian drones. Ukraine is currently focused on protecting its borders and preventing Russia's advance. Efforts are also underway to ensure the prisoners are returned home as soon as possible and allow them to celebrate the holidays with their families.